Compare and Contrast Maps - Explaining how two or more objects/ideas are similar and different

What is a Compare and Contrast Map?

When comparing and contrasting two ideas,
students look at how they are the same and
different and look for reasons for the
similarities and differences. They may make an
overall judgement about just how similar or
different the two ideas are.

How to use a Compare and Contrast

Map?

Students can compare and contrast two ideas or
objects once they are able to describe them.
Students can compare and contrast 2 or 3 ideas
using a cell-diagram or a traditional Venn diagram.
A T-chart can be used to contrast two ideas.

Why use a Compare and Contrast Map?

To deepen students' understanding of each main
idea by setting them against each other.
When children work together to compare and
contrast it promotes discussion and debate.

The Compare and Contrast Map in Action

In a Year 5 class, students worked together to compare and contrast their own sporting and fitness interests with a partner.

Year 5 children compare and contrast their exercise interests.

The compare and contrast map is a useful tool in reading.

Comparing and contrasting characters in a book in a Year 5 class.

T-charts can be used to contrast two ideas. This could be used to scaffold the compare and contrast process.

Contrasting living and non-living things at the introduction of a minibeasts unit.

Contrasting living and non-living things at the introduction of a minibeasts unit.